MANILA — To protect pets, children, and the environment, the EcoWaste Coalition and the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) renewed their call for a firecracker- and fireworks-free New Year through the “Iwas PapuToxic” event held on December 28, 2025, at Ayala Malls Vertis North.

The event featured a pet parade, a hallmark of past Iwas PapuToxic activities, where furparents and their animal companions carried placards urging the public to avoid noisy and toxic pyrotechnics during New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Adding a creative touch, participants and their pets performed a dance to Taylor Swift’s song “Opalite,” with lyrics altered to highlight the distress fireworks cause to animals. The chorus included lines such as: “It’s not right; ang paputok ay parang lightning strike; usok ay hindi ko like; ang paputok ay wag i-light; oh my my; di ko kakayanin ang ganyang ingay; usok ay hindi ko like; ang paputok ay wag i-light.”

“The thunderous blasts of New Year’s Eve firecrackers and fireworks inflict profound terror on pets and even greater trauma on defenseless strays,” said Atty. Anna Cabrera, Executive Director of PAWS. She explained that animals perceive sound at higher frequencies and volumes than humans, making fireworks particularly distressing, and warned that outdoor pets are especially vulnerable.

Cabrera urged, “Please bring your dogs inside for New Year’s Eve. Outdoor pets are the most vulnerable during the celebrations; they are defenseless against the deafening explosions and toxic fumes. Be compassionate — bring them indoors.”

The event also highlighted public health and environmental concerns. Fireworks release toxic smoke, fine particulate matter, and greenhouse gases that can harm air quality and trigger respiratory illnesses, especially in children, senior citizens, and those with pre-existing conditions.

“As we prepare for 2026, we urge the public to abandon firecrackers and fireworks. Make your New Year countdown People-, Pet-, and Planet-friendly,” said Aileen Lucero, National Coordinator of the EcoWaste Coalition. She suggested safe alternatives such as pots, pans, recycled shakers, and other noise-making devices to celebrate without harming humans, animals, or the environment.

The EcoWaste Coalition and PAWS emphasized that a firecracker-free celebration prevents injuries, reduces pollution, and spares animals from fear, while still allowing families to enjoy the festivities.

The Iwas PapuToxic campaign has been part of the EcoWaste Coalition’s advocacy since 2006, supporting the government’s Iwas Paputok program led by the Department of Health.